Are hostas poisonous to dogs? Hostas are one of the plants toxic to dogs, but to a lesser extent compared to certain types of flora.
However, pawrents should not ignore the dangers its poses to their dogs. While ingesting hosta might not lead to severe poisoning, nasty adverse reactions may occur.
Let us take a look at what makes hostas toxic to dogs and know what to do if your pooch ate one.
The Root Cause of Hosta’s Toxicity
Why are hostas toxic to dogs? The hosta plant has naturally occurring poisonous compounds known as glycoside saponins.
These chemicals have the ability to foam like soap or detergent. Their name was inspired by a plant called soapwort, whose roots were an important component in making soap.
If dogs eat a hosta, the sugar-bonded molecules of glycoside saponins will split up from each other. This reaction causes the toxins to foam inside the stomach, immobilizing its digestive process. In rare cases, it can cause the intestines to twist themselves.
Many dog owners ask: “Are all hostas poisonous to dogs?” Over 45 different species of hosta plants were identified by taxonomists.
While not all of them are toxic, the majority produce glycoside saponins. For your dog’s safety, avoid keeping any type of hosta plant in your home.
Are variegated hostas poisonous to dogs? The variegated hosta stands out from regular hostas because of its colorful patterned leaves. This plant belongs to the hosta genus, so it should be considered potentially poisonous to dogs.
No Part of the Hosta Is Free from Toxins
Some poisonous plants for dogs have certain parts that are concentrated with toxic compounds. However, hostas are different.
Right now, you might be wondering: “What parts of the hosta are poisonous to dogs?” All parts of the hosta plant carry glycoside saponins, including its:
- Bulbs
- Flowers
- Leaves
- Stems
Ingesting any of them will put your dog in danger of poisoning. Note that hostas are toxic to cats and horses, aside from canines. If you own any of the other two animals, it would be best to keep these poisonous plants away from them.
Not the Most Dangerous Plant Dogs Might Encounter
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, hostas only have mild toxicity levels. Hence, these perennials are unlikely to cause severe poisoning in canines unless consumed in excessive amounts.
Another frequently asked question is: “Can hostas kill dogs?” Hostas have a low chance of causing fatalities, but saponin toxicity can cause discomforting adverse reactions in dogs.
Moreover, as we have mentioned earlier, the plant’s saponins might cause the stomach of canines to twist, leading to dog bloat. Large breeds are highly susceptible to this condition.
Although it is a rare side effect, it can be life-threatening. Thus, dog owners must always exercise caution.
The Most Common Symptoms of Hosta Poisoning in Dogs
What happens if a dog eats hostas? After eating hostas, your dog may begin to exhibit gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. They are sometimes accompanied by abdominal pain.
Other clinical signs of hosta toxicity in canines are:
- Lethargy
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Abnormal weight loss
- Depression
- Distended stomach
How long does hosta poisoning last in dogs? The duration of hosta poisoning in dogs will depend on its severity and the timeliness of the treatment.
Mild cases of toxicity may only last for a few days if given immediate medical attention. Acute poisoning will require up to several weeks of hospitalization to ensure that the condition of the affected dogs is stabilized.
How to Handle Hosta Poisoning in Dogs
We often hear concerned pawrents ask: “What do I do if my dog eats a hosta flower or any part of the plant?” The first thing to do is to note the amount of hosta plant your dog has ingested. Next is to assess what time he has consumed it.
Then call the vet’s office for further advice. In some cases, eating only a small portion of the hosta will not require medical treatment.
The vet may suggest rinsing off any plant matter left in your dog’s mouth to prevent worsening his condition.
Inducing vomiting using hydrogen peroxide might be recommended too. However, do not conduct it without the vet’s assistance, as you might cause serious injuries to your dog.
On the other hand, severe hosta poisoning in dogs needs prompt medical care. If gastric symptoms, particularly vomiting, and diarrhea, are not mitigated in time, extreme dehydration might occur.
Treatment for Hosta Poisoning in Dogs
The vet may induce vomiting, so undigested plant matter in the stomach will be removed. Activated charcoal might be administered to bind with the poisonous compounds in your dog’s system.
Both treatment methods help hinder the toxicity from escalating by preventing the absorption of toxins.
The vet will then address your canine companion’s hydration needs. IV fluids are typically administered to regain electrolyte balance. It is also essential for protecting his kidneys from permanent damage.
Medications will be prescribed by the vet to alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. Antiemetics aids in resolving vomiting and nausea. Antiacids and GI antibiotics help with stopping diarrhea.
Close monitoring will be carried out to ensure that your dog’s vital organs are unharmed. The vet may also conduct tests such as blood work to observe if your dog’s condition is getting better or worse.
Fatal health complications due to hosta toxicity in dogs are very uncommon. Most canines can make a full recovery and live long lives once treatment is successful.
How to Keep Dogs From Eating Hostas
The best way to prevent hosta poisoning in dogs is to avoid growing the plant in your home or garden.
If you insist on keeping a hosta in the house, place it in high and inaccessible places. Spritz the plant with diluted lemon juice to make them unappealing to your pooch.
If you are planting hostas in the garden, it needs to be securely fenced. Certain dog breeds are adept at climbing or jumping through tall barriers. So make sure that the barricade is high enough to keep your dog out.
